Sometimes a relaxing getaway is just what you need to recharge from the demands of everyday life. Between all the rest, relaxation, and recharging, make sure to schedule in some time getting to know the town, including some of the off-the-beaten-path Park City tourist attractions that don’t necessarily make the guidebooks or the “must-see” lists vacationers use to create the perfect itinerary for fun and happiness to satisfy everyone in the group.
Park City Tourist Attractions: Union Pacific Rail Trail
Take some time to explore beyond the borders of Park City. The Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail is a 28-mile path built for all types of non-motorized transportation. Follow the trail along I-80 through Wanship and Coalville to Echo Reservoir. Pack your gear for some of the best things to do near Park City like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, jogging, wildlife spotting, and even Nordic skiing as you wind through the scenic mountains and agricultural valleys. There is trailhead parking so you can bring your rental car, and vault toilets along the path. The trail is open year-round during daylight hours, but make sure weather hasn’t closed any areas.
McPolin Farm
The original 160-acre farm homesteaded in 1886 by the Harrison McLane family is now owned by the Citizens of Park City to help protect the entry corridor and maintain open space around the town. After buying a piece of the McLane land in 1897, the McPolin family eventually erected a barn of recycled timber on their land in 1922 and started a dairy farm until 1947. The McPolin house on the current property is a somewhat smaller replica of the original, which was moved to the attraction location in two pieces in the early 1920s after previously being used a mine office, and members of the McPolin family lived in a block house built across from the old farm until the Citizens of Park City bought the property in 1990. The refurbished farm is considered one of the most significant visual features of the valley and an entry corridor landmark. You can also venture out on the hiking, biking, and skiing trails along the upper edge of the property after taking a walking tour through the farm’s smartphone app.
Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter
While many of the outdoor activities you’ll undertake during your Park City visit might require gear like skis, bikes, hiking packs, or paddles, there’s a way to get out into nature without the bulk of extra “stuff.” Visit the preserve Wednesday-Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and enjoy geocaching, nature walks through the preserve, follow the nearby wetland discovery trail, or a tour of their LEED Platinum certified building. There’s also a climbing wall and demonstration garden. You can also schedule your own private tour of the center, and don’t forget to stop in the gift shop for a souvenir to mark the occasion. The center often holds events, including wine tastings of delicious wines from Utah-based wineries, or demonstrations about invasive species, wildfires, and other topics.
Boulder Mountain Ranch at Deer Valley
Gather your group and saddle up for a good time. Both kids and adults will love getting outdoors with a different mode of transportation. Go off the beaten path when you wander the outdoors of Park City and the surrounding area on horseback. Rides are 1-2 hours in length and take you on an adventure of a lifetime. Make your way through lush, forested mountain trail including alpine meadows, aspen groves, pine trees, and more for beautiful views on your way to the Jordanelle Reservoir. Ask about age and any other restrictions before booking. This is definitely one of the best things to do near Park City!
Woodward Park
No matter what time of year you visit, a large portion of your time will likely be spent outdoors. Whether it’s shredding the slopes, hiking, or enjoying water sports, you’ll definitely be spending some of your days under the sun. In the winter, ride a tube down the unique snow-tubing hill, skiing, and snowboarding for all experience levels. In the summer, visit the park for freeride trails, technical trails, dirt jumps, and advanced jumps for biking enthusiasts, a skate park, and more. When the weather spoils your outdoor plans, spend some time indoors and perfect your parkour, acrobatic, or trampoline skills, or try your hand at the obstacle course.
Under-the-Radar Park City
While you’re planning your perfect Park City getaway, don’t forget to book a rental with Park City Hotels to call “home” while you explore every nook and cranny of the area. Enjoy the privacy of one of our luxury winter vacation condos or homes that fits your vacation style and needs. Choose from a cozy studio for a small family or sweetheart getaway to a sprawling three-bedroom + loft area for a large group or family to experience Park City’s best-kept secrets.
Contact us today to book a trip full of memories to last a lifetime! Book one of our best Parkite vacation rentals today. Check out our entire property Airbnb rentals in Park City!